Understanding the FE exam
The Fundamentals of Engineering exam is the first step toward licensure as a Professional Engineer. Here's how it works, what to expect on test day, and a full topic breakdown. Pick a discipline below to view its exam specification.
Format
Computer-based
Closed book, electronic reference
Questions
110
Multiple choice
Time
6 hrs
Incl. tutorial & break
Units
SI & USCS
Both systems used
What to expect on test day
Testing center
Taken at a Pearson VUE center on a provided workstation.
Reference handbook
A searchable electronic NCEES handbook is provided on-screen.
Results
Pass/fail, typically reported within 7–10 days.
Choose your discipline
Select a discipline to view its full exam specification.
Select a discipline above
Choose a discipline to see its knowledge areas and the topics covered in each.
Topic breakdowns are based on the official NCEES FE exam specifications. Exam content and specifications are determined solely by NCEES and are subject to change.